Michael Henderson

Born on July 7, 1951, in Yazoo City, Mississippi, Michael Henderson carved a niche for himself in the world of fusion jazz and R&B. His musical odyssey, marked by a distinctive bass-playing style and soulful vocals, solidified his place among the most influential musicians of the 1970s and 1980s.

From a young age, Michael’s affinity for music was apparent. At just 13, he started touring with the Detroit Emeralds. But the true leap in his career came when he joined Stevie Wonder’s band during the late 1960s. The opportunity to play alongside Wonder shaped Henderson’s artistic vision and allowed him to share stages with other notable acts like Aretha Franklin and Marvin Gaye.

The 1970s heralded a new chapter for Michael. Collaborations with jazz icon Miles Davis allowed him to demonstrate his skills as a bassist on seminal fusion jazz albums, such as “A Tribute to Jack Johnson” and “On the Corner.” These collaborations integrated him into the jazz elite, showcasing his ability to blend technical prowess with raw emotion.

As the decade progressed, Michael ventured into solo work, diving deep into R&B. Chart-topping singles like “You Are My Starship” and “Take Me I’m Yours” highlighted his rich vocals and innate talent for songwriting. His ability to seamlessly navigate between jazz, funk, and R&B made him a genre-defying force.

Throughout the ’80s and ’90s, Michael continued to work with big names in the industry, contributing to the soundtracks of popular films and collaborating with fellow musicians on various projects.